Lyman Orchards in Middlefield becomes part of Connecticut Freedom Trail

Published 7:55 pm, Friday, September 6, 2013

Known for its many special events, its famous apple pies and world class golfing, the orchards also boast historical significance. According to Executive Vice President John Lyman III, many of his family members were staunch abolitionists, were heavily involved in the Underground Railroad and used the local newspaper as a means of voicing their views.

Lyman said their efforts date back to Oct. 29, 1850, where William Lyman, his son David, his son-in-law James Dickinson and three other men wrote about their disdain for the Fugitive Slave Law and their refusal to turn in run-away slaves to authorities in the Sentinel and Witness newspaper.

The family risked losing everything from the loss of their property to their personal freedom all for taking a public stand on what they considered “sacred religious and moral principles,” Lyman said.

Representatives from the Connecticut Freedom Trail, which opened in 1996 to celebrate the accomplishments of the state’s African American community and promote heritage tourism, along with the state’s Department of Economic & Community Development and the Commission of Culture & Tourism, will be on hand to welcome the orchards to the trail and recognize their efforts.

“Being included in the Connecticut Freedom Trail is a great honor in that it recognizes the Lyman Family’s role during a pivotal time in American history,” said Lyman. “Standing against slavery took strong resolve, and publicly stating that view in a letter to the editor of the local paper required tremendous courage.”

Lyman added that his ancestors risked everything at a time where slavery divided the nation and nearly brought an end to the United States, making Saturday’s induction into the trail very special.

“It was a brave, outstanding moment, and I am proud of my family’s conviction,” he said.

The ceremony will take place at the Lyman Homestead, 3 Lyman Road, starting at 10 a.m.